NZ player's NRL career up in the air?

The immediate playing future of Kiwis prospect and Penrith young gun Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is again under a cloud after the National Rugby League star was admitted to hospital as he struggles to recover from a collapsed lung.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak Photo: PHOTOSPORT

It was hoped the New Zealand born 19-year-old fullback, who's been robbed of making his Kiwis debut twice by injury and suspension, was on the mend after last week returned to training following a collapsed lung earlier in the month.

However after going in for a scheduled scan on his chest on Friday, it was decided his recovery had been slower than expected and he was admitted to hospital.

The club said he had not suffered a recurrence of the problem but the best course of action was for him to be monitored.

"It was decided Watene-Zelezniak should be hospitalised on the basis his recovery has been progressing slower than expected," the club said.

"Media reports he has suffered another collapsed lung are inaccurate."

"He will consult with specialists over the next 24 hours to determine the best course of action moving forward."

Watene-Zelezniak suffered a collapsed lung several days after taking a heavy hit against the Sydney Roosters in round 18.

It was not known when he will be able to return to rugby league and he was being assessed as to whether he requires surgery.

Earlier in the week he said he was hopeful of turning out against South Sydney on Sunday and the club said he got through training this week without incident.